The victim's father tells CBS 5 News Thompson had big dreams in life. Now he's coping with the fact none of them will ever come true.

"I'm trying to understand that God, had the plan and whatever we thought we wanted that was not His plan, nor was it His will," said Richard Thompson.

Ian MacDonald and his girlfriend Samantha King were arrested by Scottsdale Police Feb. 6 in connection with Thompson's murder. Hours before the Jan 27stabbing, photos of MacDonald and King in a Scottsdale club were posted on MacDonald's Facebook page.

Thompson was a father and former football player at Arizona State University. Thompson played tight end and receiver for the Sun Devils from 2003 to 2007. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Indianapolis Colts, but didn't play in an NFL game.

Police said he was stabbed five times in the hip, back and arm outside the Martini Ranch in Scottsdale where he worked as a security guard.

Richard Thompson and his family made the decision to take his son off of life support on Saturday.

MacDonald was initially released pending further investigation and results of lab analysis of evidence collected from him and evidence at the scene.

On Monday, detectives said they received an anonymous tip stating MacDonald admitted to stabbing the bouncer and hiding the knife in his boxers. The tipster said MacDonald threw the knife away in a Dumpster in Mesa, according to a court document.

I'm in the process of trying to grieve," Thompson said.

MacDonald was released from jail on a $75,000 bond. Thompson's funeral will be held this weekend.

The Thompson family is trying to raise money for the funeral and establish a fund for his one-year-old son.

Bank Account Information:

COMERICA BANK

Torrie Thompson for the benefit of Tyrice Thompson

ACCOUNT# 8002373853

On July 5, 2014, MacDonald was arrested on weapons and alcohol charges in Mesa.

He is being held without bond after his initial appearance Monday in Maricopa County Superior Court.

Mesa police said he also was arrested early Saturday on suspicion of intent to assault, disorderly conduct and other charges.

They say MacDonald was earlier cited by a park ranger for drinking alcohol and reportedly pointed a gun at a Mesa couple.